SmartNet – Smart Business Network - enhancing the internationalisation through innovative, driven solutions
The Maritime Institute at the Gdynia Maritime University is the leader of the SmartNet project: Smart Business Network – Enhancing Internationalisation through Innovative, Driven solutions. The project is being implemented under the South Baltic Programme 2014–2020 and is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund.
This project is partly a continuation of the INCONE60 project (www.incone60.eu), which was successfully implemented under the same programme. This project led to the idea for a business network called INCOnet (https://www.incone60.eu/inconet-1). INCOnet is dedicated to small and medium-sized seaports, municipalities, and entities involved in logistics chains.
The regular project, which will be established during the seed money project, will be based on cross-sector partnerships. Its goal will be the innovative internationalisation of SMEs located in seaport areas to improve their presence in international markets. We want small ports to be smarter. To achieve this, we will involve all types of companies in the port area to ensure a comprehensive port development. Innovative networking platforms, business consulting, and matchmaking activities will be provided to enhance the business offerings of these entities.
Building on our recent experience, we plan to create a smart business network with a practical dimension. To strengthen our presence in the international market, we must leverage innovative solutions and combine the strengths of cross-sector partnerships. Based on our experience in diverse collaborations, we plan to jointly develop solutions, create a recognisable brand in Europe, and deliver tangible results for the development of companies and regions.
As part of a regular project, we will also conclude an agreement between small ports. The first agreement was signed as part of the INCONE60 project between Vordingborg and Elbląg. The aim is to strengthen economic relations between Denmark and Poland, increase the volume of cargo transported by sea between small ports, support the development of companies located around these ports, increase the competitiveness and attractiveness of the regions, positively impact local and regional markets, and increase job opportunities. The ports will primarily collaborate to transfer technological solutions, increase competitiveness, strengthen their position in the Baltic market, acquire new cargo and launch regular shipping services. These activities will impact the local and regional economy. As part of the SmartNet seed money project, our partners and we are developing a detailed action plan for the coming years to achieve the above-mentioned goals.
SmartNet – Smart Business Network – Enhancing Internationalisation Through Innovative, Driven Solutions
Duration: July 1–October 31, 2022
Funding from the European Regional Development Fund: EUR 32,950.00